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Lung Cancer Screening Program in Sioux Falls

To schedule your screening, call 1-877-AT-AVERA (1-877-282-8372).

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, causing more deaths than breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers combined. Results of the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) showed that screening current and former heavy smokers with at least three low-dose CT scans reduced their risk of dying from lung cancer by 20 percent.

How do I know if I am at risk forlung cancer?

People with a history of cigarette smoking have a higher risk of lung cancer. Based on the National Lung Screening Trial ­ findings, lung cancer screening is recommended for this group of people:

Age 55-74 years and

Current smokers with a smoking history of at least 30 pack years (For example 1 pack/day for 30 years, 2 packs/day for 15 years, etc.) OR

Comprehensive Lung Program

Our comprehensive lung program is here to support you by offering:

- Lung patient navigation

- Weekly multidisciplinary lung conference

- Individual or group smoking cessation programs.

Call 1-866-205-1005 or 605-322-3875.

Electromagnetic Navigation Bronchoscopy®

ENB™, is a state-of-the-art procedure which uses GPS-like technology to diagnose and plan treatment for a lesion located deep in the lung. Learn more

Smoking Cessation

Smoking cessation services are also available through the SD Quitline.

1-866-SD-QUITS or 1-866-737-8487.

Former smokers with at least a 30 pack year smoking history who have quit within the last 15 years

What is lung cancer screening?

Screening means testing for a disease when there are no symptoms. Low-dose CT screening of the chest looks for lung nodules which may be early lung cancer. This offers the best chance of ­ finding lung cancer in its earliest and most curable stages.

How is the lung cancer screening test performed?

You will lie on a table that passes though the center of the scanner. The screening CT can be performed with a single short breath-hold and takes less than 15 seconds. The procedure is painless.

How much radiation will I receive during the lung cancer screening CT?

Radiation from screening CT is far less than the dose from a standard CT. The benefit of finding and treating an early lung cancer far outweighs the risk. The amount of radiation exposure from CT lung cancer screening is about the same as a person would receive from background radiation (such as sun exposure) over a period of one year.

Will insurance cover the cost of my screening exam?

CT scans to screen a person without symptoms for lung cancer are not yet covered by Medicare or most insurance companies. We are hopeful this may change in the future. Payment is due at the time of your procedure.

What happens after my CT lung cancer screening?

A radiologist will interpret your screening chest CT and either recommend a one-year follow-up or further testing. Results are sent to your physician. You will also receive a follow-up call from the lung patient navigator. You will also receive a letter telling you if your test was normal or if you need to schedule an appointment with your doctor.

How do I schedule my lung cancer screening?

Talk to your physician or call 1-877-282-8372. You will also receive a follow-up call from the lung patient navigator.